Are you planning to go on a cruise and wondering what to wear for dinner? Dress codes on cruises can vary by the ship, destination, and dining venue. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you decide what to pack in your suitcase.
Research the Cruise Line’s Dress Code
Before you start packing, it’s important to research the dress code of the cruise line you’ll be sailing with. Some cruise lines have strict dress codes for formal nights, while others are more relaxed. You can usually find this information on the cruise line’s website or by contacting their customer service.
Formal Nights
Most cruises will have at least one formal night where guests are expected to dress up for dinner. This usually means a suit or tuxedo for men and a cocktail dress or gown for women. If you don’t want to pack formal attire, most cruise lines offer rental options onboard.
Men’s Formal Attire
For men, a dark suit or tuxedo is appropriate for formal nights. A white shirt and tie are also essential. Black leather shoes should be polished and worn with dark dress socks.
Women’s Formal Attire
For women, a cocktail dress, gown, or dressy pantsuit is appropriate for formal nights. Make sure your shoes match your outfit and are comfortable enough for dancing.
Semi-Formal Nights
On semi-formal nights, guests are expected to dress up but not as formally as on formal nights. Men should wear a suit or sport coat with slacks and a collared shirt. Women should wear a nice dress or skirt with a blouse.
Casual Nights
Most nights on a cruise ship will be casual evenings where guests can wear resort-style clothing. This means khaki pants or shorts for men and sundresses or capris for women. However, it’s important to note that even on casual nights, tank tops, flip flops, and swimwear are not allowed in the dining venues.
Specialty Dining Venues
If you plan on dining at a specialty restaurant onboard, it’s important to check their dress code beforehand. Most specialty restaurants have a dress code that is slightly more formal than the main dining room.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dressing for dinner on a cruise depends on the cruise line’s dress code and the type of dining venue you’ll be visiting. It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed, so bring at least one formal outfit just in case.
Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes for dancing the night away. Bon voyage!